From the coarse particle found in the aggregate industry to the finer particles seen in the pharmaceutical industry, particle size analysis is essential to most quality control programs. Test sieve analysis, in particular, is a particle analysis method that has been practiced for centuries, making it one of the most reliable forms of particle analysis.
But with particle analysis labs typically consisting of several lab technicians, implementing equipment that is easy to use is critical when attempting to yield accurate and repeatable results. This is the particle analysis environment that devices, such as the RO-TAP® RX-29 E Pure, are designed to create.
That's why in this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about this electromagnetic sieve shaker.
W.S. Tyler has worked within the particle size analysis industry for over 140 years and strives to help its customers perfect their particle analysis setup.
To that end, this article will cover:
- What a RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure is
- How the RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure works
- What test sieves can be used with the device
- The initial setup you can expect
- Common maintenance to look out for
- How much the RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure costs
What Is a RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure?
The RO-TAP E Pure is an electromagnetic sieve that was designed to facilitate a test sieve analysis princess that is simple and seamless. The simplified sieve analysis is carried out using one of the two device amplitude settings: one for coarse materials and the other for fine materials.
The coarse amplitude setting is intended to test particles that are typically 80 mesh and coarser, whereas the fine setting is intended to test particles that are 100 mesh and finer.
To that end, the RO-TAP E Pure is recommended for particle analysis labs that run a basic operation.
How Does the RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure Work?
The RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure uses a 3D elliptical motion to promote particle movement throughout the sieve stack. Rather than the flat orbital motion and hammer tap action of the mechanical RX-29, the RO-TAP E unit uses a heavy-duty magnet to move the sieve plate and create a unique 3D motion.
This heavy-duty magnetic is attached to a spring. During operation, the magnet receives an electric charge causing the spring to compress and decompress rapidly.
As a result, the particles in the sieves move in a flat plain while also being bounced up and down in an elliptical motion. These movements essentially mimic the movements of a mechanical sieve shaker.
It should be noted that when testing material, the machine will run for a set amount of time then pause. This gives the individual particles time to settle down on the mesh and fall through the openings if they are small enough.
When the fine setting is selected, these intervals are much closer together and slightly longer than the coarse setting. This is because the gravity and density of the coarser particles allow them to fall through the sieve stack easier.
Additionally, you may find yourself running your material longer when switching from a mechanical sieve shaker to the RO-TAP E Pure. This is particularly true when working with finer materials such as powdered sugar.
What Sieves Can I Use With the RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure?
The RO-TAP RX-29 Pure is designed to house 8-inch (200mm) test sieves. That said, your sieve stack can consist of 9 full-height sieves with a pan or 15 half-height sieves with a pan.
NOTE: Regardless of what RO-TAP E model you select, you will need to incorporate a collection pan at the bottom of the sieve stack. However, there is no need for a sieve cover, as the machine's cover fits snuggly on the sieves.
What Initial Setup Is Required?
Setting up the RX-29 E Pure is reasonably straightforward. While it may lighter than the mechanical sieve shaker models, weighing around 85 to 90 lbs., the RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure must be placed on a solid, secure surface.
This can be either a tabletop or the floor.
You will then need to screw the guide rods into the designated sockets. As these guide rods support the sieve stack, it is important that you use the included wrench to tighten them in place.
The next step is to set and secure the clamping units onto the guide rods, pulling the gray element of the clamps up slightly when attempting to position them.
At this point, set your sieve stack onto the device, put the device cover over the sieve stack, tighten the clamps, and check that the cover evenly covers the sieve stack. You can then select the desired amplitude mode and begin to test your material.
What Maintenance Is Typically Required?
With the RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure, there is not a lot of required maintenance, as there are minimal wear parts used to facilitate particle movement through the sieve stack.
That said, there are instances in which you may need to troubleshoot your device.
If you notice the control panel is not illuminating correctly, you will want to check the fuses of the device. You will find that the device has one fuse that controls the control panel as well as one spare fuse.
To that end, if the control panel is properly illuminated, but the device won't function properly, you will need to send your device in to be re-calibrated/repaired.
You will also need to send your device in to be re-calibrated/repaired if you suspect the device is running harder than intended or if you begin to hear a clicking noise. This generally means the accelerometer of the device needs to be replaced.
Additionally, you will want to ensure the guide rods are kept clean and free of debris. You can clean them using a wire brush to remove any particles from previous testing or air borne debris.
This will ensure the claps can attach to the guide rods and help the cover provide a secure seal.
How Much Does the RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure Cost?
The RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure unit will cost anywhere from $5,774.41 to $6,599.41, depending on your needs. This price is subject to change depending on any test sieves you may need.
But no matter what sieve shaker you purchase, test sieves are not included with the purchase of a sieve shaker. To learn more about how much you can expect to pay for a stack of sieves, read the following article:
Additionally, sometimes when testing material with the RO-TAP E models, you that your particles need additional separation. If this is the case, you may need to invest in a test sieve clamping ring designed to provide additional ultrasonic vibrations that work to separate particles at a specific point in the sieve stack.
To that end, as the RX-29 E Pure is much quieter than a mechanical sieve shaker, there is no need for the additional expenses associated with a sound enclosure kit.
Fine-Tune Your Test Sieve Analysis With Helpful Test Sieve Accessories
The W.S. Tyler RO-TAP RX-29 E Pure is an electromagnetic sieve shaker designed to simplify the test sieve analysis process. With fine particle and coarse particle testing modes, the RX-29 E Pure is designed to test fine particles 100 mesh and smaller or coarse particles 80 mesh and larger.
To improve your ability to test various materials; however, you must explore the possibilities of paring your test sieves with the available accessories. Doing so will help you better maintain your test sieves, gather a reliable sample, and facilitate particle movement.
As a prominent leader in the particle size analysis industry with over 140 years of experience, W.S. Tyler strives to help lab technicians create a particle analysis lab setting that yields accurate and repeatable results seamlessly and consistently.
Read the following article and get a better idea of what test sieve accessories are best suited for your operation: